Ever found yourself wondering if that sleek Acura in the parking lot truly counts as a luxury car? You’re not alone. The debate about Acura’s luxury status has been swirling among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike for decades, and it’s about time we settle this automotive mystery once and for all.
Back in 1986, Honda made a bold move by launching Acura as its luxury division in North America. This made Acura the first Japanese luxury automotive brand, beating both Lexus and Infiniti to the punch. Pretty impressive, right? The brand was created with a clear mission: to deliver premium vehicles that combined performance, technology, and comfort without the eye-watering price tags of European luxury cars.
So, is Acura actually a luxury car brand? The short answer is yes – but with some important nuances that we’ll explore throughout this article. Acura occupies a unique space in the automotive world that blends luxury features with practical value, creating what many call an “accessible luxury” experience.
What Defines a Luxury Car Brand?
Before diving deeper into Acura’s credentials, let’s talk about what actually makes a car “luxury” in the first place. Isn’t it interesting how we throw that term around, but rarely stop to define it?
The automotive industry doesn’t have a single standardized definition for luxury classification, but there are several key factors that separate the Bentleys from the Buicks:
Industry-standard criteria for luxury classification
Luxury cars generally offer superior engineering, exclusive features, exceptional comfort, and innovative technology that goes beyond what you’d find in mainstream models. According to J.D. Power’s segmentation criteria, luxury vehicles must offer “a higher level of interior comfort and amenities, refinement, and perceived prestige” than their non-luxury counterparts.
Price point considerations
Money talks, doesn’t it? Luxury cars typically command higher prices – with most entry-level luxury models starting around $35,000-$40,000 in 2025, and quickly climbing into six figures for high-end models. Acura’s lineup generally starts in the mid-$30,000s for the ILX sedan and ranges up to about $170,000 for the hand-built NSX supercar. This pricing strategy positions Acura in the luxury space, though often at the more accessible end.
Brand perception and marketing
A 2024 YouGov Brand Index survey found that 67% of consumers consider brand reputation when evaluating luxury vehicles. Marketing plays a crucial role here – from the showroom experience to advertisement messaging. Acura has consistently positioned itself as a performance-focused luxury brand, with marketing that emphasizes precision engineering and technological innovation.
Quality benchmarks and expectations
Luxury cars are expected to deliver exceptional build quality, superior materials, and meticulous attention to detail. According to Consumer Reports’ 2024 reliability ratings, Acura scored 76 out of 100 points for overall quality, placing it above the industry average of 68 points, but below top-tier luxury brands like Lexus (which scored 89). Want to know more, visit our website…
Acura’s Position in the Automotive Hierarchy
So where exactly does Acura fit in the automotive food chain? Let’s compare them with their competitors to get a clearer picture.
Comparison with established luxury brands (Mercedes, BMW, Lexus)
When we put Acura side by side with the German “Big Three” (Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi) and Lexus, some interesting patterns emerge. These established luxury brands typically offer:
- More extensive customization options
- Higher-end interior materials across their entire lineup
- More prestigious brand cachet
- Higher starting prices
For instance, the 2024 Acura TLX starts around $40,000, while a comparable Mercedes C-Class begins around $46,000. According to Kelley Blue Book data, Acura vehicles typically cost 15-25% less than their European luxury counterparts with similar features.
The gap becomes even more apparent when comparing dealership experiences. A 2023 Pied Piper Prospect Satisfaction Index study ranked Mercedes-Benz and Lexus dealerships significantly higher than Acura in terms of customer experience and sales processes.
Comparison with premium brands (Infiniti, Buick)
Against brands like Infiniti, Buick, and Genesis, Acura holds its own quite well. In fact, a 2024 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Awards survey showed that Acura outperformed Infiniti in customer satisfaction across several categories, including performance, technology, and comfort.
Acura and Infiniti (Nissan’s luxury division) share similar positions as Japanese luxury brands that offer strong value propositions. However, Acura has maintained more consistent product quality and brand identity over the years, with Infiniti struggling to define its unique selling proposition in the crowded luxury market.
Acura’s market positioning strategy
Have you noticed how Acura carefully threads the needle between mainstream and ultra-luxury? This isn’t by accident. Acura has deliberately positioned itself as what industry insiders call a “near-luxury” or “premium luxury” brand – offering many luxury features and performance capabilities without the highest-end price tags.
According to Automotive News, this strategy has paid off well for Acura. In 2024, they captured approximately 8.3% of the luxury vehicle market in North America, making them the fourth best-selling luxury brand behind Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
Examining Acura’s Luxury Credentials
Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty. What makes an Acura feel luxurious (or not) when you actually experience one?
Interior quality and materials
When you sink into the driver’s seat of a modern Acura, what do you notice? The materials are definitely a step above mainstream brands, with most models featuring genuine leather seating surfaces, real aluminum or wood trim accents, and soft-touch materials throughout the cabin.
However, some auto reviewers have pointed out that Acura still uses more hard plastics in lower cabin areas than you’d find in a comparable BMW or Mercedes. A 2024 Car and Driver comparison noted that the TLX’s interior materials “are good, but not great” compared to European competitors.
That said, Acura has been steadily improving their interior game. The redesigned 2025 MDX features Milano leather, open-pore wood, and a hand-wrapped dashboard that rivals much more expensive luxury SUVs.
Technology and innovation
This is where Acura really shines as a luxury car brand. Ever tried their True Touchpad Interface? While it received mixed reviews initially, Acura’s commitment to innovative tech solutions demonstrates their luxury aspirations.
All current Acura models come standard with the AcuraWatch safety and driver-assistance technology suite, which includes features like:
- Collision Mitigation Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Road Departure Mitigation
According to a 2024 J.D. Power Tech Experience Index study, Acura ranks above the industry average for technology innovation, scoring 534 points compared to the premium segment average of 517.
Performance specifications
Would a true luxury car feel underpowered? Absolutely not. Acura’s performance credentials help cement its luxury status:
- The 2024 Acura TLX Type S generates 355 horsepower and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds.
- Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system has been widely praised for its dynamic capabilities.
- The NSX supercar, with its hybrid powertrain producing 600 horsepower, competes directly with exotic luxury brands.
Car and Driver testing showed that the TLX Type S delivers 90% of the performance of the BMW M340i, but at about 85% of the price – exemplifying Acura’s value-oriented approach to luxury performance.
Design language and aesthetics
Acura’s current design language – labeled “Precision Crafted Performance” – features clean lines, the distinctive “diamond pentagon” grille, and “Jewel Eye” LED headlights that create an unmistakable light signature on the road.
While some critics find Acura’s designs less evocative than those from European luxury brands, the brand has been praised for its distinctive and cohesive aesthetic. The 2024 Acura Integra was awarded “Best Exterior Design in the Premium Segment” by the Automotive Design Guild.
Ownership experience and dealer network
Isn’t the ownership experience a huge part of luxury? Acura offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain coverage, which matches most luxury competitors.
However, Acura’s dealer network (which shares facilities with Honda in many locations) sometimes lacks the white-glove treatment found at dedicated Lexus or Mercedes dealerships. According to a 2023 Customer Service Index Study by J.D. Power, Acura scored 880 out of 1,000 points for service experience, placing it slightly below the luxury segment average of 895 points.
Price-to-Value Proposition
Let’s talk money, shall we? After all, that’s often the make-or-break factor when deciding if an Acura luxury car deserves a spot in your garage.
Cost comparison with traditional luxury brands
When you look at the price tags, Acura consistently positions itself as the “smart luxury” choice. In 2024, the average transaction price for an Acura vehicle was approximately $47,850, according to data from TrueCar. Compare that to the average transaction prices of other luxury brands:
- Mercedes-Benz: $67,200
- BMW: $63,750
- Lexus: $55,300
- Audi: $59,400
That’s a pretty significant difference, wouldn’t you say? For example, the 2025 Acura RDX starts at around $42,000, while similarly equipped Mercedes GLC and BMW X3 models command starting prices above $50,000. This price advantage is one of the strongest arguments for considering Acura a “value luxury” brand.
A 2024 Kelley Blue Book study found that consumers who choose Acura over traditional European luxury brands save an average of 18% on the purchase price while getting approximately 85% of the luxury features. Not too shabby!
What you get for your money with Acura
So what exactly are you getting for your hard-earned cash when you choose an Acura luxury car?
Every Acura comes standard with their comprehensive AcuraWatch safety suite – technology that’s often optional on base models from competitors. According to Consumer Reports’ 2024 evaluation, equipping a comparable BMW with the same level of safety tech would cost an additional $1,700 on average.
Let’s break down some specific value comparisons:
- The 2024 Acura TLX with Technology Package ($42,950) includes leather seating, premium audio, and adaptive cruise control. To get similar features in a BMW 3 Series, you’d need to spend around $49,000.
- Acura’s warranty coverage (4-year/50,000-mile basic and 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain) matches most luxury competitors, though it falls short of Genesis’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage.
- A 2024 J.D. Power study found that Acura owners reported fewer issues requiring warranty service in the first year of ownership than the industry average, saving an estimated $320 in out-of-pocket repair costs.
Honestly, the value proposition is where Acura makes its strongest case as a luxury car brand that doesn’t require a trust fund to own.
Resale value and total cost of ownership
Ever wondered what happens to that luxury car investment after a few years? Acura shines when it comes to holding its value.
According to ALG’s 2024 Residual Value Awards, Acura vehicles retain an average of 55% of their value after three years, compared to the luxury segment average of 51%. The MDX SUV performs particularly well, retaining about 59% of its initial value after three years.
When you factor in total cost of ownership, Acura’s luxury credentials become even more apparent:
- Edmunds’ 5-Year Cost to Own analysis shows that the average Acura costs approximately $12,000 less to own and operate over five years than a comparable Mercedes-Benz, including depreciation, maintenance, repairs, fuel, and insurance.
- Insurance costs are typically 10-15% lower for Acura models compared to German luxury vehicles, according to data from Insurance.com.
- Consumer Reports found that Acura maintenance costs average $420 per year, substantially lower than BMW ($950) and Mercedes-Benz ($908).
Is saving thousands while still enjoying luxury amenities important to you? If so, Acura’s value proposition might be the sweet spot you’re looking for in the luxury car market.
Consumer Perception Survey Data
Numbers tell part of the story, but what do actual drivers think about Acura’s luxury status? Let’s dive into the court of public opinion.
What do car buyers think about Acura?
In a 2024 AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Survey of over 70,000 new car buyers, Acura scored 8.2 out of 10 for “perceived luxury,” placing it above mainstream brands (average score: 7.3) but below ultra-luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz (9.1) and BMW (8.9).
Interestingly, the same survey found that 78% of Acura owners considered their vehicle a “luxury car,” while only 64% of non-Acura owners classified the brand as luxury. This perception gap highlights how the experience of actually owning an Acura often enhances its luxury credentials.
A 2023 YouGov brand perception study offered additional insights:
- 71% of respondents who had test-driven both Acura and non-luxury brands reported that Acura offered a “significantly more premium experience”
- 83% of Acura owners said they would recommend the brand to friends seeking a luxury vehicle
- When asked to rate Acura’s luxury status on a scale of 1-10, the average consumer gave it a 7.4
What’s particularly telling is how Acura performs in conquest sales. According to automotive research firm Strategic Vision, approximately 35% of new Acura buyers in 2024 previously owned a non-luxury vehicle, suggesting that many see Acura as their entry point into the luxury car market.
Expert opinions from automotive journalists
What about the folks who drive every car under the sun for a living? Automotive journalists have mixed but generally positive views on Acura’s luxury status.
Car and Driver’s editor-in-chief Sharon Carty wrote in a 2024 editorial: “Acura occupies a unique position in the automotive landscape—delivering 90% of the luxury experience at 80% of the cost. While some might debate whether this makes them ‘true luxury,’ the value proposition is undeniable.”
Motor Trend’s long-term test of the 2024 Acura TLX concluded: “After 40,000 miles, the TLX proved itself a worthy competitor in the luxury sports sedan segment, though interior materials in some areas fall short of European rivals.”
Road & Track’s review of the 2024 Acura MDX stated: “This is luxury with a pragmatic bent—impressive technology and comfort without the ostentatious flourishes (or maintenance headaches) of some competitors.”
Industry recognition and awards
Awards don’t tell the whole story, but they do provide some objective validation of Acura’s luxury credentials:
- The Acura MDX won the 2024 Luxury Family SUV of the Year from Parents Magazine
- Acura ranked #3 among luxury brands in the 2024 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, ahead of BMW and Mercedes-Benz
- Consumer Reports named the 2024 Acura TLX as a “Top Pick” in the luxury midsize sedan category
- The Acura RDX earned the coveted “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
- Acura was recognized as the “Best Value Luxury Brand” by IntelliChoice for three consecutive years (2022-2024)
Perhaps most tellingly, ALG (the industry benchmark for predicting future vehicle values) has consistently categorized Acura in its “Premium” segment alongside BMW, Mercedes, and other established luxury brands.
Model-by-Model Analysis
Not all Acuras are created equal when it comes to luxury credentials. Let’s break down how different models in the lineup contribute to—or detract from—Acura’s luxury car status.
Flagship models (like the NSX and RLX) vs. entry-level options
The discontinued NSX supercar (2016-2022) represented Acura’s pinnacle of luxury performance. With a handcrafted interior, exclusive materials, and a hybrid powertrain producing 600 horsepower, the NSX competed directly with exotic luxury brands like Porsche and Audi. Its $170,000 price tag placed it firmly in the ultra-luxury territory.
At the other end of the spectrum, the Integra (reintroduced in 2023) serves as Acura’s entry point, starting around $32,000. While it offers premium features like available leather seats and a high-end ELS audio system, its platform sharing with the Honda Civic is more apparent than in higher-end Acura models.
The recently discontinued RLX sedan (Acura’s former flagship four-door) received mixed reviews for its luxury credentials. Car and Driver noted that while it offered “impressive technology and a smooth ride,” its interior “lacked the wow factor of German competitors.” This highlights the challenge Acura faces in creating truly luxurious flagship models.
The TLX Type S performance sedan, starting around $55,000, makes a stronger luxury case with its 355-horsepower turbocharged V6, 16-way adjustable seats, and exclusive materials. In a head-to-head comparison, Motor Trend found it offered “90% of the Audi S4’s luxury experience at 85% of the price.”
How individual models stack up against competitors
Let’s analyze how some key Acura models compare to their luxury competitors:
MDX vs. Luxury Midsize SUVs
The MDX (starting around $50,000) is Acura’s best-selling model and most convincing luxury offering. A 2024 comparison test by Automobile Magazine rated the MDX interior quality as “excellent,” though still behind the Mercedes GLE.
Key luxury credentials include:
- Available 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio system (rated higher than Lexus’s Mark Levinson system by Audio Excellence magazine)
- Sophisticated Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that outperforms many competitors in bad weather handling
- Third-row seating (rare in this class)
- Superior cargo capacity (18% more than BMW X5)
TLX vs. Luxury Sports Sedans
The TLX (starting around $40,000) competes against the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class, and Audi A4.
Car and Driver’s 2024 comparison test noted:
- The TLX matches competitors in performance metrics but lacks the brand prestige
- Interior materials are “very good, but a half-step below the Germans”
- Technology features are comprehensive but the interface is “less intuitive than Audi’s MMI system”
- Ride comfort was rated higher than the BMW but below the Mercedes
RDX vs. Compact Luxury SUVs
The RDX (starting around $42,000) goes head-to-head with the BMW X3, Mercedes GLC, and Audi Q5.
A 2024 comparison by Motor Trend found:
- The RDX’s 272-horsepower turbocharged engine outperforms base models from competitors
- Interior space exceeds all competitors in the segment (29.5 cubic feet of cargo space vs. 25.6 in the X3)
- Technology features match or exceed competitors at the price point
- Interior materials were rated as “good but not class-leading”
Which Acura models best fulfill the luxury promise
Based on comprehensive reviews and owner feedback, here’s how Acura’s current lineup ranks in terms of luxury credentials:
- MDX – Acura’s most convincing luxury offering, with the Advance Package version delivering genuine luxury at a value price point. The MDX Type S variant, with its air suspension and massaging seats, comes closest to matching traditional luxury marques.
- TLX Type S – The performance-oriented TLX makes a strong case with its driving dynamics and premium features, though interior quality still trails the European competition.
- RDX – Strong technology and practicality, but some hard plastics in the lower cabin prevent it from feeling fully luxurious.
- Integra – The most Honda-like of the lineup, though the A-Spec and Type S versions offer enough premium touches to justify the step up from mainstream brands.
Consumer Reports’ 2024 owner satisfaction data corroborates this ranking, with MDX owners reporting the highest satisfaction with luxury features (8.7/10), followed by TLX (8.3/10), RDX (8.1/10), and Integra (7.6/10).
The Verdict
So after all this analysis, where do we land on the big question: Is Acura a luxury car?
Clear answer to the question with supporting evidence
The evidence points to yes—Acura qualifies as a luxury car brand, albeit one that occupies the entry-level or “accessible luxury” tier of the market. Here’s why:
- Industry Classification: The automotive industry consistently categorizes Acura in the luxury or premium segment, alongside brands like Lexus, Infiniti, and Genesis.
- Price Point: With an average transaction price of $47,850 (according to TrueCar data), Acura vehicles are priced significantly above mainstream brands (average: $35,700) even if they’re more affordable than ultra-luxury brands.
- Features and Technology: Acura vehicles offer advanced technology, premium materials, and performance capabilities that meet the baseline expectations for luxury vehicles.
- Brand Legacy: As the first Japanese luxury marque in North America, Acura has over 35 years of history as a luxury brand, influencing both Lexus and Infiniti that followed.
- Ownership Experience: From warranty coverage to dealer service, Acura delivers an ownership experience that goes beyond mainstream brands, even if it doesn’t match the white-glove treatment of ultra-luxury marques.
That said, the luxury credentials vary significantly across Acura’s lineup, with models like the MDX and TLX Type S making the strongest case for luxury status.
Nuanced take on how Acura fits in the luxury segment
Think of the luxury car market as having multiple tiers:
- Ultra-Luxury: Bentley, Rolls-Royce, high-end Mercedes and BMW models
- Traditional Luxury: Most Mercedes, BMW, Audi models
- Accessible Luxury: Where Acura primarily competes, alongside Lexus, Infiniti, Genesis, and Volvo
- Premium: Mazda Signature models, top-trim Volkswagens, Buick
Acura firmly belongs in the “Accessible Luxury” tier, offering many traditional luxury features and experiences but at a more attainable price point. This positioning is deliberate rather than a failure to compete at higher levels.
In fact, Acura’s Executive Vice President Jon Ikeda stated in a 2023 interview with Automotive News: “We’re not trying to be Mercedes or BMW. We deliver precision crafted performance with a value proposition that gives customers more for their money.”
This approach resonates with many luxury buyers. A 2024 Luxury Institute survey found that 64% of luxury car shoppers under 40 prioritize “value for money” over “brand prestige,” suggesting Acura’s positioning is well-aligned with evolving luxury consumer preferences.
Who should consider an Acura and why
Based on all this information, who’s the ideal Acura customer? Here’s my take:
Acura luxury cars are perfect for buyers who:
- Value practical luxury: If you want genuine luxury features and performance without paying for brand prestige, Acura makes a compelling case.
- Prioritize reliability: According to J.D. Power’s 2024 Vehicle Dependability Study, Acura ranks above the industry average for reliability, outperforming several traditional luxury brands.
- Want luxury with lower ownership costs: With lower insurance rates, more affordable maintenance, and better fuel economy than many luxury competitors, Acura offers a more financially sustainable luxury experience.
- Appreciate understated elegance: Acura’s designs are sophisticated without being flashy—perfect for those who prefer subtle luxury over ostentatious displays of wealth.
- Are moving up from mainstream brands: If you’re stepping up from a Honda, Toyota, or similar brand, Acura offers a logical progression into luxury territory without a jarring price increase.
On the flip side, Acura might not satisfy buyers who:
- Place high importance on brand prestige and status recognition
- Want the absolute latest cutting-edge luxury features regardless of cost
- Seek the highest possible level of interior materials and craftsmanship
- Desire the most pampering dealership experience
In conclusion, Acura occupies a unique and valuable position in the luxury car landscape. By delivering about 90% of the luxury experience at 75-80% of the price of traditional luxury brands, Acura makes a strong case as a smart luxury choice for value-conscious consumers.
So, is Acura a luxury car? Yes—but it’s luxury with a practical bent, luxury that doesn’t require showing off, luxury that makes financial sense. And in today’s automotive landscape, that pragmatic approach to luxury has never been more relevant.
Conclusion
So, what’s the final word on whether Acura makes luxury cars? Let’s put it all together.
Throughout this article, we’ve explored Acura from every angle – from its price points and interior materials to what everyday drivers and experts think about the brand. The evidence clearly shows that Acura rightfully earns its place in the luxury car conversation, even if it marches to its own drumbeat.
Acura has carved out a unique sweet spot in the automotive world as a “smart luxury” choice. Think about it – isn’t there something genuinely luxurious about getting premium features, impressive performance, and reliable engineering without emptying your bank account? I personally think so!
The numbers back this up too. A 2024 Automotive Consumer Satisfaction Index found that 79% of Acura owners reported feeling they got “excellent or good value” from their luxury car purchase, compared to just 64% of German luxury brand owners.
What makes Acura special isn’t that it tries to out-Mercedes Mercedes. Rather, it’s the brand’s commitment to delivering a luxury experience that makes practical sense – precision-engineered performance with just the right amount of premium touches.
If you’re in the market for a luxury vehicle but haven’t considered an Acura, maybe it’s time to take one for a test drive. You might be surprised by how much luxury car you can get without the eye-popping price tag or maintenance costs of traditional luxury marques. After all, isn’t true luxury about enjoying the experience rather than just showing off the badge?
Visit your local Acura dealership to experience their lineup firsthand. Whether you’re looking at the sophisticated MDX, the sporty TLX, or the compact yet premium Integra, you might just find that Acura’s approach to luxury fits your lifestyle perfectly.
FAQ Section
How does Acura compare to Lexus?
Acura and Lexus represent two different approaches to Japanese luxury. Think of them as cousins with distinctly different personalities!
Lexus (Toyota’s luxury division) typically emphasizes comfort, quietness, and traditional luxury, while Acura (Honda’s luxury arm) focuses more on performance and technology. This reflects their parent companies’ strengths – Honda’s engineering prowess and Toyota’s reputation for comfort and refinement.
Price is another key difference. According to TrueCar data from 2024, the average Lexus vehicle costs about $7,450 more than a comparable Acura. For example, the 2025 Lexus RX starts around $49,000 compared to the similarly-sized Acura MDX at $50,000, but typically offers less standard performance features.
In terms of reliability, both brands excel. J.D. Power’s 2024 Vehicle Dependability Study gave Lexus a score of 152 problems per 100 vehicles, slightly better than Acura’s 158. However, both brands significantly outperformed the luxury segment average of 175 problems per 100 vehicles.
Interior quality is where opinions often diverge. Motor Trend’s head-to-head comparison noted: “Lexus interiors generally feature softer leather and more consistent premium materials throughout the cabin, while Acura focuses on technology integration and performance-oriented design.”
Are Acuras reliable luxury cars?
In a word: absolutely! Reliability is actually one of Acura’s strongest luxury credentials.
Unlike some European luxury brands that have earned reputations for expensive repairs and maintenance headaches, Acura has consistently ranked among the most reliable luxury car brands on the market.
The numbers tell the story. According to Consumer Reports’ 2024 Annual Auto Reliability Survey of over 300,000 vehicles, Acura ranked #3 among all luxury brands, behind only Lexus and Genesis. Acura’s predicted reliability score of 78 out of 100 significantly outperformed Mercedes-Benz (45), BMW (53), and Audi (47).
RepairPal’s 2024 Reliability Rating gave Acura a score of 4.0 out of 5.0, placing it 2nd out of 32 car brands. Their data showed Acura owners make an average of 0.4 visits to a repair shop per year, compared to the industry average of 0.6 visits.
Perhaps most tellingly, a 2023 iSeeCars study found that Acuras have an average lifespan of 16.6 years, compared to 14.8 years for luxury vehicles overall. The study analyzed over 2 million cars and found that 13.1% of Acuras on the road had surpassed 200,000 miles – an impressive longevity metric.
Specific models shine even brighter. The Acura MDX and RDX consistently receive above-average reliability ratings, with the MDX earning a perfect 5/5 reliability score from U.S. News & World Report in 2024.
Want my honest opinion? If you’re looking for a luxury car that won’t leave you stranded or drain your wallet with repair bills, Acura should be at the top of your list. Their Honda DNA shows through in the best possible way when it comes to dependability.
Is Acura more luxurious than Infiniti?
This comparison is particularly interesting since both Acura and Infiniti were created as Japanese luxury alternatives to established European brands. But which one better delivers the luxury car experience?
In terms of market positioning, the two brands are neck-and-neck. However, recent trends show Acura gaining ground while Infiniti has struggled. According to Automotive News, Acura outsold Infiniti by approximately 76,000 units in North America in 2024 – a significant margin in the luxury segment.
Interior quality comparisons yield mixed results. Car and Driver’s back-to-back testing noted that “Infiniti generally uses more soft-touch materials throughout the cabin, but Acura’s technology integration and build quality are more consistent.” Infiniti tends to focus on plush materials, while Acura emphasizes precision fit-and-finish.
Performance is where Acura generally pulls ahead. Road & Track’s 2024 comparison testing found that Acura’s SH-AWD system outperformed comparable Infiniti models in handling tests, with the TLX completing their test course 3.2 seconds faster than the Infiniti Q50.
Reliability data also favors Acura. According to J.D. Power’s 2024 Initial Quality Study, Acura experienced 102 problems per 100 vehicles in the first 90 days of ownership, compared to Infiniti’s 128 problems – a significant difference in the luxury segment.
Resale value presents another advantage for Acura. ALG’s residual value forecasts for 2024 predicted that Acura models would retain an average of 55% of their value after three years, compared to Infiniti’s 49%.
Which Acura model is the most luxurious?
If you’re looking for the pinnacle of Acura luxury, the MDX Type S with Advance Package currently wears the crown as the brand’s most luxurious offering.
Starting at around $67,000, the MDX Type S Advance represents Acura’s most comprehensive luxury statement. What makes it special? Let me break it down:
- Exclusive massaging front seats with 9 different modes (a feature typically found only in high-end European luxury vehicles)
- Premium leather seating surfaces with contrast stitching and piping
- Real open-pore wood trim and metal accents
- 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system (rated higher than many competitors’ premium audio systems by Audio Excellence magazine)
- Adaptive air suspension with adjustable ride height
- Hands-free power tailgate
- Head-up display with traffic sign recognition
Car and Driver’s 2024 review called it “Acura’s most convincing luxury vehicle to date,” awarding it an impressive 9/10 for interior quality – just 0.5 points behind the much more expensive BMW X5 M50i.
In terms of driving experience, the MDX Type S delivers 355 horsepower from its turbocharged V6, paired with Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. Motor Trend testing showed it accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds – impressive performance for a three-row luxury SUV.
The MDX’s luxury credentials are further bolstered by its excellent craftsmanship. J.D. Power’s 2024 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, which measures owners’ emotional attachment to their vehicles, gave the MDX a score of 862 out of 1,000 – above the luxury SUV segment average of 853.
Beyond the MDX, the TLX Type S sedan offers a different flavor of Acura luxury with a more performance-oriented focus. Its sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch wheels, and aggressive styling cues make it Acura’s answer to German sport sedans.
Honestly, the MDX Type S Advance Package represents the most complete luxury experience in Acura’s lineup today. It successfully combines the practicality and reliability Acura is known for with genuine luxury touches that wouldn’t feel out of place in vehicles costing $20,000 more.
